Recently, I wrote an ‘Open Letter’ to Mr. Khizr Khan that generated quite a bit of controversy. I had referenced that Captain Khan’s sacrifice was his own. In reading numerous Gold Star family comments from both sides of the isle, I believe an apology to the Khan family, Mrs. Smith and all Gold Star Families is in line. I was hopeful that I would have had the opportunity to make this last night in a more public forum but I was unable.

While I personally do believe Captain Khan’s sacrifice was his own, I have learned that my own position on this issue does not reflect the views of many Gold Star Families. I should have been more circumspect in my comments and taken more time to understand the feelings of those families before opining. There is no other way to say it: I am sorry and I have learned.

I want to thank those who took the time to comment directly and professionally to allow me to see both sides of this very sensitive position.